Fastest player in NFL history retires on eve of season after Mahomes link-up

27 July 2023 , 13:49

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John Ross is calling time on his NFL career at the age of just 27

John Ross has decided to retire from the NFL, before being given a chance to play with Patrick Mahomes at the Kansas City Chiefs.

The former Cincinnati Bengals and New York Giants wide receiver informed the Chiefs of his decision before even playing a competitive game, after only signing for the team on a reserve/future contract in January. Ross set the record for the fastest recorded 40-yard dash in NFL Combine history back in 2017, completing it in 4.22 seconds.

Ross was in the same draft as Mahomes, and was actually picked before the now two-time Super Bowl winner. Ross was the ninth overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, with Mahomes being the next name read out by commissioner Roger Goodell.

The receiver was meant to provide competition for places at the Chiefs, as they never really replaced Tyreek Hill last season and Mecole Hardman and Juju Smith-Schuster have since departed. But just as Andy Reid's intense summer camp was starting, the roster has had a major alteration.

The reason for Ross' decision to retire is unknown, with the receiver still just 27-years-old. But injuries have been a constant hindrance to his progression, even before making it to the NFL.

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Ross made a slow start to his college career but was handed a blow as he missed the entire junior year through injury. But Ross made a remarkable comeback, scoring 17 touchdowns in 13 games during his senior year at Washington, and earning a reputation as one of the best receivers in the NCAA.

After declaring for the draft Ross broke records at the NFL combine, although it did come at a cost. After breaking the dash record Ross pulled up with tight calves, and shortly after attending Washington Pro Day he had shoulder surgery.

Ross holds the record for a 40m dash time at the combine (2021 Cooper Neill)

His shoulder would ultimately lead to his downfall, as he missed almost the entirety of his rookie season with the Bengals after being placed on IR. Ross finally enjoyed a full season in 2018 and scored seven touchdowns, but after scoring three touchdowns in the first eight games of the 2019 season he injured his shoulder again.

Ross would be given a fresh chance by the New York Giants, signing a one-year deal in March 2021 after he became a free agent. Again, Ross was placed on IR just as the season was about to start, but was activated again in Week 4 of the 2021 season.

The receiver only started one game for the Giants although he did feature in 10 games last season, scoring one touchdown. But his NFL career is over sooner than expected after starting just 21 games across five seasons.

Joseph McBride